Zandunga Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Oak Ridge

My neighbor & I wanted to try out this new restaurant next door to Hobby Lobby, that just opened. First impressions mean a lot. This restaurant did not disappoint us. Upon entering, we were warmly greeted. I was amazed by the decor & cleanliness. The walls are vibrant & trendy. This approach gave the place a more open feel. The restrooms were bright & very clean. The staff wore festive uniforms. Our waiter was very professional & conscientious. My neighbor is Latino, her enchilada and traditional squash and corn was excellent according to her. Her standards are very high.

My experience has taught me that if the salsa is really good, I know the food is going to be outstanding. They nailed it! The salsa had flavors that complemented each other brilliantly. The other measure I use, are the chips. They were freshly made. These two factors told me a lot about this establishment.

Another factor I use is their tacos. I have to say that their beef tacos were excellent. The ground beef actually had a very pleasant flavor. They had generous portions of cheese and lettuce. I chose black beans as my side & again they got it right.

You have to check out this place in Oak Ridge. If you live in Oak Ridge or West Knoxville take the time to go to this place. They cook their food with love. They may take their time, but it’s worth it. Most likely based upon the taste of the food they cook...

Wow! This is the second time I've picked up food from this restaurant, and I'm impressed! I grew up in Southern California, so I know good authentic Mexican food when I see it, and Zandunga has good food! The first time I ordered, I got a few items from the lunch menu. The chips and salsa were good. The refried beans were a little different, redder and creamier with good Mexican rice. There are other choices for the sides as well. The entrees were tasty.

Today, I ordered the Mole Mexicana. What a good choice! It reminded me of meals I've had in the city of Orange, California with the rich mole sauce over with grilled onions, poblanos and pulled chicken along with flour tortillas. I am so thrilled that Oak Ridge has a REAL Mexican restaurant, and we will be going back again and again. I missed the location at first because it is in a strip mall next to Hobby Lobby, but I won't forget about it now. I highly recommend my new favorite Mexican restaurant in the Knoxville area to anyone passing through.

Update 2-11-24: Two years later, my husband and I stopped by for dinner. The salsa was thick and spicy and the mango margaritas were delicious served in beautiful hand-blown glasses. I very much enjoyed my mole chicken. This Mexican restaurant is still way...

(Update) I previously posted a review about Zandunga closer to the opening of the restaurant. However I'd like to update this after a few more visits. Initially the food was very good. A couple of good spins on otherwise typical Mexican restaurant fair, but my last experience has prompted me to review.

This time the restaurant was casually busy for lunch. Seated promptly, chips and salsa brought promptly. I placed my order and waited with my S/O. This time around I ordered the 3 item combo. One cheese enchilada and 2 beef tacos. Black beans and zucchini/onions as a side. The enchilada was good, but the zucchini, although good in flavor was very much room temperature. My beans were very hot. My S/O order a chimichanga and black beans as well. Her beans were cold. So I gave her mine and continued. About halfway into my second taco I noticed a very metallic taste from the beef (not a good sign) which was very pungent and stuck to my pallet. After finishing up I remained slightly nauseated, but could not get that taste to subside. All in all Zandunga is decent, but the quality shifts make it hard to keep...